Students in Julianna Hatjygeorge and Samantha Berg’s first grade class at Primrose Elementary School celebrated Martin Luther King Day through service. 

“All week long we read books, listened to stories about Dr. King, the injustices he was fighting and his message of peace,” Hatjygeorge said. “We also looked at experience of black and brown children during this time and how things were not fair for them and how that must have made them feel.” Hatjygeorge said the classed wrapped up the week with a Day of Service.

This year students collected new socks and underwear for The Sharing Shelf, a local organization that helps get needed items into the hands of children in Westchester County. Students also spent time making Valentines cards for service members overseas as well as children in hospital settings and adults at the Paramount in Somers to help brighten their day. 

“During our day of service, I learned Martin Luther King Jr. fought for justice,” said first grader Noar Shabaj. “We also made Valentine’s Day cards. I felt happy to help.”

“We keep the conversation going in our classroom about equity, diversity and empathy by connecting it to different celebrations and monthly recognitions throughout the year,” Hatjygeorge said. “We hope this instills in our students a want to give back to their community well beyond 1st grade.”